Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentleman,

• We now come to one of the best parts of this morning’s busy agenda.
• We have with us today two great champions of ICT development, each of whom has devoted enormous time and resources to helping extend ICT access within their own nations, and to promoting the benefits of these technologies to leaders and decision-makers around the world.
• Over the past five years, both Burkina Faso and Rwanda have increased their ICT penetration more than four-fold, and now rank among the most exciting emerging markets for investors and ICT network and service developers.
• Through the efforts of these two leaders, ICTs are playing a critical role in supporting social and economic transformation, and creating a conducive climate for rapid growth.

President Compaoré,

• The success of your efforts to create a vibrant business environment were recognized just a few days ago, when Burkina Faso was named one of the year’s Top Reformers in the African Reformers’ Club Awards.
• In recognition of your untiring dedication to promoting the cause of ICT development, it gives me enormous pleasure to present you with the Committed to Connecting the World Award.

President Kagame,

• Rwanda continues to make great strides forward. You are well advanced in implementing an ambitious programme of privatization, and the World Bank’s ‘Doing Business’ Index for Africa now ranks Rwanda in first place for business creation.
• At the same time, you have earned international recognition as a world leader in creating opportunities for women.
• In honour of your outstanding personal commitment to connecting communities at home and abroad, ITU is honoured to present you with the Committed to Connecting the World Award.

President Compaoré, President Kagame,

• I hope the success of your efforts will inspire others to follow in your footsteps and harness the power of ICTs to drive development, and to help all nations achieve their MDGs.

Thank you.